Paris Saint-Germain’s highly anticipated signing of Khvicha Kvaratskhelia has created a buzz among fans eager to see the Georgian star in action. However, the 23-year-old winger will not be making his debut in this week’s pivotal Champions League clash against Manchester City due to UEFA’s registration rules. Despite being PSG’s first-ever Georgian player and arriving with significant expectations, Kvaratskhelia will have to watch from the sidelines until the tournament’s knockout stage.
A High-Profile Signing Comes With Restrictions
Kvaratskhelia’s transfer from Napoli to PSG was finalized last week in a deal worth €70 million (£59 million). The Georgia international requested to leave the Italian side during the January transfer window, and PSG managed to secure his services in a contract that runs until June 2029. His signing has been celebrated as a major coup for the French champions, who beat out several top clubs in the race for his signature.
However, PSG fans hoping to see Kvaratskhelia in action against Manchester City on Wednesday will be disappointed. Despite not featuring in European competition with Napoli this season, UEFA rules stipulate that players can only be registered for the league phase of the Champions League if their names were submitted before the September 3, 2024 deadline. Since Kvaratskhelia joined PSG on January 17, 2025, he is ineligible to participate until the knockout stage.
UEFA’s Rules Keep Kvaratskhelia Benched
According to UEFA regulations, clubs competing in the Champions League are required to submit their squad lists before the group stage begins. These rules ensure roster consistency throughout the league phase, leaving no room for mid-season additions like Kvaratskhelia to make an immediate impact. As a result, the Georgian winger will be unavailable for PSG’s final league phase match against Stuttgart on January 29.
If PSG manage to secure a place in the knockout rounds, the team will have the opportunity to revise their squad. UEFA allows clubs to register up to three new players before February 6, 2025, meaning Kvaratskhelia could still feature in Europe this season. However, PSG’s current position in the Champions League standings complicates matters.
PSG’s Struggles in the Champions League
PSG have had a challenging run in the Champions League this season. With just seven points from six games in the league phase, the team sits 25th in the standings, one point shy of the play-off spots. They are also seven points behind Lille, who occupy the final automatic qualification position. This precarious standing raises concerns about whether PSG will even reach the knockout rounds where Kvaratskhelia could play.
The match against Manchester City is a must-win for PSG as they battle to keep their Champions League hopes alive. A loss could significantly dent their chances of progressing, making Kvaratskhelia’s absence even more notable.
Immediate Debut Possible in Domestic Competitions
While Kvaratskhelia’s European debut may be delayed, he is eligible to play for PSG in domestic competitions immediately. The Ligue 1 leaders are set to host Reims on Saturday, providing the Georgian winger with an opportunity to showcase his talents in front of the Parc des Princes crowd.
Kvaratskhelia’s arrival comes at a critical juncture for PSG as they look to bolster their attacking options. Known for his creativity, dribbling skills, and ability to score goals, he is expected to play a key role in the team’s pursuit of silverware across all competitions.
Kvaratskhelia’s Journey to PSG
Kvaratskhelia’s rise to prominence has been remarkable. The 23-year-old began his professional career in his home country of Georgia before moving to Rubin Kazan in Russia. His performances there caught the attention of European clubs, leading to a transfer to Napoli in 2022.
At Napoli, Kvaratskhelia quickly established himself as one of Serie A’s brightest talents. His ability to influence games from the wings and his knack for scoring crucial goals made him a fan favorite. It was this form that drew PSG’s attention and ultimately led to his high-profile move to the French capital.
What This Means for PSG
The inability to field Kvaratskhelia against Manchester City is undoubtedly a setback for PSG, especially considering the importance of the fixture. The French champions face one of the Premier League’s most formidable teams in a game that could determine their Champions League fate. Without their new signing, PSG will rely on their existing stars to deliver a result that keeps their European campaign alive.
At the same time, Kvaratskhelia’s presence in Ligue 1 could provide PSG with the spark they need to maintain their domestic dominance. His addition to the squad strengthens their attack, giving manager Luis Enrique more options as the team juggles multiple competitions.
The Road Ahead
For PSG, the immediate focus is on securing a positive result against Manchester City to keep their Champions League hopes alive. The team must overcome their inconsistent form in the league phase and deliver a performance worthy of their status as one of Europe’s elite clubs.
Meanwhile, Kvaratskhelia will have to wait patiently for his chance to shine on the European stage. Should PSG qualify for the knockout rounds, his inclusion in the squad could provide a significant boost as they aim for continental glory.
In the meantime, PSG fans can look forward to seeing their new star in action domestically. As Kvaratskhelia prepares to make his Ligue 1 debut, he will be eager to make an immediate impact and justify the club’s investment in his talents.
Conclusion
While PSG’s signing of Khvicha Kvaratskhelia represents a major statement of intent, UEFA’s registration rules mean the Georgian winger will have to wait to make his Champions League debut. As the French champions fight to keep their European campaign alive, Kvaratskhelia’s contributions will be limited to domestic competitions for now.
With PSG facing a pivotal clash against Manchester City and battling for qualification in the league phase, the team’s resolve will be tested. Regardless of the outcome, Kvaratskhelia’s arrival signals PSG’s ambitions for the future, and fans can expect big things from their new star as he begins his journey in Paris.
